By Paul M. Collins, Esq.

Is My Landlord Allowed to Enter My Rental Unit Without Notice? 

Introduction 

It’s late evening, and you hear loud and familiar banging on your front door. You wonder to yourself (possibly not for the first time): Is a landlord allowed to enter a rental unit without notice? Under California law (Civil Code § 1954), a landlord generally must provide at least 24 hours’ notice before entering, with certain exceptions. In the following article, we’ll explore permitted entry scenarios, notice requirements, and how to handle unexpected landlord visits. The following article does not constitute specific legal advice, nor does it create any attorney-client relationship between TLG and the reader.  

California Civil Code § 1954: When Entry Is Permitted 

California Civil Code § 1954 allows a landlord to enter your unit for specific reasons: 

  • Repairs and Maintenance: To perform agreed-upon repairs or maintenance. 
  • Inspections: To make periodic inspections (commonly every six months). 
  • Showings: To show the unit to prospective renters, buyers, or lenders. 
  • Emergency Entry: If there’s an immediate threat to life or property—like a burst pipe or fire. 

For non-emergency entry (repairs, inspections, showings), the landlord must provide “reasonable notice” in writing—usually interpreted as at least 24 hours’ notice specifying date, approximate time, and purpose. If your lease specifies a narrower window (for example, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.), the landlord must adhere to it. 

Exceptions to Notice Requirements 

If your rental unit faces an emergency—say an electrical fire sparks or a water main breaks—the landlord can enter immediately without prior notice. Similarly, if you consent orally or in writing near to or at the moment of entry, no advance notice is required. That can happen if you text back, “Sure, come right now”—your verbal consent is sufficient. However, after fixing an emergency, the landlord can’t use that excuse to enter at will on subsequent days; you still retain your tenant rights for each and every subsequent visit. 

Documenting Unnoticed Entries 

What if your landlord knocks and lets himself in without any notice—no text, no written note? Consider the following:  

  • Document the date, time, and any witnesses.  
  • Take photos of the open door or any proof of entry (e.g., disturbed items).  
  • Consider sending a written communication to the landlord or property management objecting to the unnoticed entry.  
  • If unnoticed entries persist, consider contacting your local tenant rights organization or seeking limited scope legal advice.  

Conclusion 

Understanding whether your landlord allowed enter rental unit without notice is key to preserving your rights and preventing misunderstandings. Generally speaking, except for emergencies or your express consent, your landlord must give 24 hours’ written notice specifying date, time, and reason. When in doubt, document all interactions and send follow-up notices. While this blog is not legal advice, staying informed empowers you to negotiate privacy and maintenance needs effectively.

Disclaimer: This page provides general information about landlord-tenant laws in California and is not intended as legal advice. We encourage you to consult with a qualified attorney or local tenant advocacy organization for guidance specific to your situation.